Chanel Inc. has named Katie Welch as head of U.S. brand and company communications, effective Jan. 5. It is a new role.
She will report to Stephane Blanchard and will lead the integrated divisional brand communications teams. In this role, Welch will help share and amplify the Chanel Inc. story across the U.S.
“Katie is a dynamic leader who brings both strategic vision and creative instinct to her work,” said Blanchard, president of the U.S. Region and Chanel Inc. “Her deep understanding of brand storytelling, her collaborative leadership style, and her ability to connect with audiences through creativity and purpose make her uniquely suited to lead this next chapter for Chanel Inc. in the U.S. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the team.”
Most recently, Welch was global chief marketing officer of Rare Beauty, leading brand, product and consumer marketing as well as creative, PR, influencer, partnerships and social impact. Earlier, she was global chief marketing officer at Hourglass, where she helped develop brand pillars and positioning, drove global expansion into key markets and contributed to the brand’s successful sale to Unilever.
Earlier in her career, Welch spent seveal years at Weber Shandwick, where she helped pioneer integrated marketing approaches that bridged global brand storytelling with local activation.
Welch will also join Chanel Inc.’s U.S. Management Committee.
The divisional heads of brand communications will report to Welch, who include Ellie Hawke, head of brand communications, watches & fine jewelry and company communications; Nancy Hawthorne, head of brand communications, fashion; and Nicole Sullivan, head of brand communications, fragrance and beauty.
Adina Kagan, former head of media & insights and interim head of U.S. brand communications, was named head of strategy and transformation in September 2024. Following Welch’s arrival, Kagan will step fully into the role of head of strategy and transformation, continuing to report to Blanchard, and remaining a key member of the U.S. management committee.
Kagan is focused on building Chanel Inc.’s organizational foundation for long-term growth and cultural impact. The Transformation Office plays a critical role in shaping Chanel Inc.’s future, bringing external thought leadership and innovation into the organization and across regional divisions. She joined Chanel in 2012, prior to which she was at Tiffany & Co.
